Freedom
Chapter 11
A new Friend


Bokura wa onaji sekai wo
oyogi-tsudzukete'ru
tagai no negai e todoku hi
made
minna onaji fuan kakaete
sasaeaeru yo
tachidomaru shunkan ni
mitsumete'ru
kono basho ni iru

~*~*~*~*~

Kenshin laid on his cot trying to figure out a plan. He had forgotten about sleep a long time ago. He knew that the answer to his insomnia was Kaoru.

What were you thinking? Kenshin began to belittle himself. You thought you could actually save her. He was also beginning to hate himself. I may have had the strength to help her but not the wits. I'm so sorry Miss Kaoru. Kenshin took the pillow and slammed it over his face. Why won't this nightmare stop! He screamed.

Mr. Himura! Please get up. You're ordered to come to the visitation room. A guard told him.

Kenshin got up and walked over to the gate. The man opened it and allowed him to walk out. He wasn't a true prisoner so he didn't need to wear the shackles and clothing. He still wore what he did when Kaoru was taken. Slowly he walked down the hall. He was in no hurry to see anyone. Kenshin no longer had the energy to talk. Depression had hit him hard.

The guard stepped in front of Kenshin and opened the door. Please go in.

Kenshin did as asked, but he kept his gaze to the ground.
A voice yelled in happiness.

Kenshin recognized the happy, sweet voice immediately. He snapped his gaze up just quick enough to catch Kaoru in his arms. Miss Kaoru. Kenshin held her tightly in his arms.

Ouch. Could you possibly avoid the wound on my back? Kaoru asked in a still happy voice.

Kenshin immediately pulled away. Oh I'm so sorry Miss Kaoru. He said as he dropped his gaze allowing his bangs to cover his eyes.

I'm so glad to see you! Kaoru said tears falling down her cheeks. She noticed Kenshin had tears in his eyes, but thought it best not to say anything.

Excuse me, but the chief says that you're free to leave. Another guard said.

Kenshin asked.

Yes. Somehow your boss heard the news and said it was okay for you to go. He explained.

Mr. Toyogawa will never cease to amaze me. Kenshin muttered under his breathe.

What about me? Kaoru questioned.

I guess so. He never said anything, but why would you be kept here. Just come back tomorrow for a report. He told her.

Thank you. Where is my car? Kenshin asked as he took Kaoru's hand.

Oh it's out back. Follow me. He said.

~*~*~*~*~

Kenshin opened the door for Kaoru to get in. He was shocked to see her wince in pain. Are you okay Miss Kaoru?

It's just the mark on my back. She told him.

Kenshin walked to the other side and stepped into the car. He then put the key in the ignition and turned it on. I'm taking you to Miss Megumi then. Kenshin told her as he pulled out of the lot.

Please Kenshin, no. I'm to tired. I just want to sleep. Kaoru begged.
Reluctantly he gave in. Fine. Where do you want to go? He asked her.

Kaoru didn't want to go back to her apartment. She knew exactly where she wanted to go. Um...Kenshin, could I possibly...

Kenshin began to speak at the same time. You could stay with me.
Kaoru laughed at that and began to laugh louder when Kenshin did too.

~*~*~*~*~

Kenshin opened the door and allowed Kaoru to walk in. Kenshin followed after her into the living room. You're going to Miss Megumi tomorrow.

Yes Kenshin. Kaoru whispered.

His gaze quickly snapped to Kaoru. Are you okay.

Kaoru was feeling so beaten.

Kenshin slowly sat down next to Kaoru on the couch. Well I'm not.

Kaoru's eyes snapped open.

I tried to save you, but they locked me up. Kenshin let out a sigh. I'm sorry Miss Kaoru. I promised that I'd protect you.

Kenshin, how were you to know? We were all tricked. Kaoru reasoned.

But I did know! Kenshin jumped to his feet.

Kenshin you're not making any sense. Kaoru said, allowing her gaze to follow him.

I guess it's like a premonition. I saw you being caught. I even heard you screaming. Kenshin's hands began to ball up. He finally stormed over to the door, grabbing his keys on the way. Come on Miss Kaoru.

Slowly Kaoru got to her feet. She was a little confused at his harsh voice. Where are we going?

Just come on...Miss Kaoru. Kenshin told her, while trying to hold on to some politeness.

No! Not until you tell me! Kaoru yelled and crossed her arms over her chest.

I'm sorry Miss Kaoru. Kenshin apologized. I want to take you to Sanosuke's. Maybe he can keep you safe. On our way we'll get your clothes.

Are you mad? Kaoru shrieked.

Miss Kaoru? Kenshin was now becoming confused.

You've got to be out of your mind if you think I'd be safer with Sano! Kaoru had no intention on leaving him.

But Miss Kaoru... Kenshin began.

No, but Miss Kaoru'! It's final! Kaoru then plopped down in a chair, her arms still crossed.

Kenshin finally got the point. Well can we at least go get your clothes?

I'd rather take a bath. She told him.

Okay. I'll go get your clothes and you take your bath. Kenshin suggested.

Kaoru said with a wide smile.

~*~*~*~*~

Kaoru slowly stepped out of the bath and smiled when she didn't fall. She then wrapped the towel around her and crept into the bedroom. After drying herself off she put the yukata back on. Satisfied with her appearance, Kaoru sat down on the window seat to wait for Kenshin.

She watched as night descended into day. Men and women walked the streets, frantic to get to where they needed to go. Kaoru began to worry. Shouldn't he be home by now? Kaoru whispered as she looked at the clock. It was six in the morning. Her panic began to rise. Kaoru began to walk around the room until she collapsed an hour later. Her body was shacking from the intensity of her tears.

Kaoru heard the door open and a new type of fear began to run through her. Now she thought that they had hurt Kenshin so they could come after her.

I'm back Miss Kaoru! Kenshin's voice came from the living room.

Immediately Kaoru got to her feat and ran out of the bedroom. She yelled as she plowed into his arms.

Kenshin was so shocked that he dropped everything in his hands. Miss Kaoru?

Kaoru gradually pulled away from him. Why'd you take so long?

Oh, I got some groceries. Kenshin told her with a smile as he picked up the bags.

I thought you'd be back sooner. Kaoru said, but still in her place.

I'm sorry Miss Kaoru. I won't do it again. It's that I;ve deen away for so long that some new food might be good. Kenshin told her.

Sorry? You just don't get it Kenshin! Kaoru yelled.

Kenshin looked up from the bags to see her run off into the bedroom. He shook his head and ran off after her. Miss Kaoru?

Kaoru heard the door open, but didn't move. She sat on the edge of the bed with her head in her hands. I thought they'd hurt you.

Kenshin walked over to the bed and sat down. I'm sorry. I didn't know that you would become so worried. Kenshin got up and walked out of the room. When he returned he had a suitcase. I got your clothes.

Kaoru whipped her eyes and gave him a weak smile. Thank you.

Kenshin smiled back before leaving. He put up the groceries and sat down on the couch. A smile crossed his face as the memory of when Kaoru first came crossed his mind. He pulled the blanket over his head in an attempt to block out the sun.

~*~*~*~*~

Kaoru pulled on the silk night gown. It was a light sky blue color that ended at her knees. She then laid down in the bed for awhile, listening to the cabinets banging close. She allowed her eyes to close and soon sleep took her.

The sleep only lasted for a few moments though. Kaoru shot up, her breath ragged. Sirens were sounding through out the streets. Kaoru gave a shake of her head and got out of bed, grabbing the yukata and putting it on. Silently Kaoru crept out of the room and into the living room. She tiptoed behind the couch, but stopped when she felt a hand on her wrist.

Are you leaving Miss Kaoru? Kenshin asked her.

Kaoru turned to meet his gaze. Actually I was going to sit in the chair.

Aren't you sleepy? Kenshin asked her while releasing her hand.
Yes, but... Kaoru began.

...but you heard the sirens. Right? Kenshin said. She nodded and he smiled. Hey is that mine? He said as he fingered the sleeve of the yukata.

Kaoru whispered.

Looks like we could both use new ones. He told her.

You're not mad? She asked in a shocked tone.

Of coarse not. It just looks a little gross. Kenshin told her. He wiggled and settled onto the corner of the couch. Why don't you lay down. After you take a nap then we'll go to Megumi's. Kenshin told her.

No. I'm not going! Kaoru yelled.

Kenshin grabbed her wrist and led her around the couch to sit next to him. Why do you hate it so much?

I never went to the doctor. I wasn't allowed. She admitted.

It's good for you, Miss Kaoru. She'll heal all your wounds. Kenshin told her.

If you say so. Kaoru whispered as she laid her head on a pillow at the other end of the couch.

Goodnight Miss Kaoru. Kenshin whispered as he covered her up.

~*~*~*~*~

Kaoru had seen Megumi with the usual complaints. They had fought, but in the end Megumi had made sure that Kaoru would heal nicely. The rest of the day was spent at the police station. Now it was ten at night. I'm a little hungry. Kaoru said as they walked out onto the street.

I think there's a little restaurant that stays open late, just down the street. Lets walk there. Kenshin suggested.

Kaoru exclaimed. She quickly grabbed Kenshin's hand and began to drag him up the street.

Miss Kaoru... I think the restaurant is this way. Kenshin said pointing in the other direction.

Kaoru blushed a little, but quickly turned around and walked in the other direction pulling Kenshin along with her. Up ahead Kaoru spotted a large group of people. They would've been the exact people she would've picked to attack.

Yes Miss Kaoru? Kenshin responded.

Do you see that boy in the crowd. Kaoru asked him.

Kenshin looked in front of him, but saw no boy. All I see is adults.

Look again. He's dressed in tattered clothes and is slowly slinking closer to the woman in red. Kaoru told him.

Kenshin once again looked at the crowd. He still saw nothing like what Kaoru said. Kenshin sighed and tried to look for the woman in red. There. I see him. Kenshin said. The boy that Kaoru spoke of was next to the woman, but was only seen occasionally because he was shielded by the other people.

That boy is another slave, but for another gang. I've seen him before. I've even seen him reprimanded by his boss. He's getting ready to steal. He's not as good as I, but he's learning. Kaoru told him. Do you think we could...

Yes Miss Kaoru. I have a feeling that he wishes to be free also. Kenshin acknowledged.

Kaoru gave him a tight squeeze of the hand before running off. Kenshin started to walk faster, but made sure not to disturb Kaoru. He watched as Kaoru ran quickly to the group but slowed down. What she did, though, amazed him.

The boy slipped his hand inside the purse and quickly pulled out a wallet and stuffed it in his shirt, or at least he thought he did. Kaoru instead, grabbed the the wallet from the boy and replaced it with something else before he noticed, then she placed the wallet back in the purse. Once this was all down she waited till they were parallel with an alley, before ramming the boy deep inside.

Kenshin took this as his queue to show him self.

~*~*~*~*~

Hey what do you think your doing! the boy asked.

Listen, I know you work for some gang. If you want to get away from them, then I can help you. Kaoru told him.

Why should I trust you? I just saw you last night being followed by a bunch of men. He told her.

Yes, but now she's back with me. Kenshin said in a quiet tone as he stepped out of a shadow. He came up to stand next to Kaoru and placed a hand on her shoulder.

Oh Kenshin. Look I found him. Kaoru smiled in her triumph.

I see you did Miss Kaoru. Kenshin looked to the boy and extended his hand. I'm Himura Kenshin.

The boy took his hand and released it with a weak shake. And I'm leaving.

Kaoru told him, but he kept going. Kenshin why are you letting him go? You wouldn't let me go.

Maybe he just doesn't deserve the help. He's just a kid and it takes a man to except help. Kenshin said in an all knowing voice.

Kaoru just stared at him in shock. She stumbled to say.

I'm not a kid! The boy yelled as he swung around on his heel. Fine! If You feel that you have to help me then whatever.

Kenshin smiled to himself. The boy acted just as he had suspected. Come with us to dinner and we'll discuss it then. the boy nodded and Kenshin took Kaoru's hand to lead her to the restaurant. Come Miss Kaoru, I'm still hungry.

~*~*~*~*~

Translation~

Change the World- Inuyasha- Opening Theme
Bokura wa onaji sekai wo
oyogi-tsudzukete'ru
tagai no negai e todoku hi
made
minna onaji fuan kakaete
sasaeaeru yo
tachidomaru shunkan ni
mitsumete'ru
kono basho ni iru

We keep swimming the same world
until the day we reach our dreams.
All of us bear the same worries
When you stop and look. I'll be right here
gazing at you.

A.N.~
Hmmm... who could the boy be? Okay I've got a pretty good idea that you all know who it is, but I'm not saying anything so there! Thanks again for all the reviews! Please keep going though!

To the Reviewer's~

Kenshin-gotenks~ I love getting people hooked. It makes me feel so special!

heartbreaker2007~ Thanks for reviewing and I'm glad you like the story.

HiEi FoR sALe~ Woohoo! Thanks for reviewing!

wishnik~ Wow I'm so glad he is out now. I'd hate to upset you more. Lol.

Inuyasha~ Well I hate it that I made you cry, but then I'm also glad! ^_^

Kawaii Kokkei Tsuita no Neko~ Hmmm? A kiss? I feel so evil knowing that I hold the answer in my hands. *dangles answer over your head* Ha ha. A kiss would be nice wouldn't it? Also you'll probably see more versus of the inuyasha songs beginning thee chapters because what they say seems to fit so well.

Tsugoi Kakarlena~ Yipee I updated! Yay!

Crystal Renee~ I've been seeing that your story is far in the cahpters and I'd love to read it! I'm sure once I start though that I won't stop reding it until I've finished so I need to find some time, but I will read it! Also, Go January people! My B-day is January 21st! It's so funny because since my birthday is at the ending for a Capicorn then I have the traits of both a Capicorn and an Aquarius. Hmm maybe thats why I like the anime characters with a kind side and aa darker one or at lest sadder side. Hehe! Yeah I'm begging people though for the Inuyasha DVD (the japanese subtitled ones.) Inuyasha manga 15 and the Rurouni Kenshin! This is the first year I've got it all planned out! Anyways... Thanks for reviewing! It's awesome!

In my Head~
Another week is gone! Yay! I am so sick of school already! And to top it off Inuyasha is off cartoon network again! Dangit! Why do they hate me so! Rurouni Kenshin is only on once a week and now no Inuyasha! Whyyyy! I'm helping the soccer team though as their defense coach! since I began to help coach we have won one game and tied the other one so now we are 1-1-1!